School head 'Bud' Moore recalled fondly throughout state

By DAN SEUFERTUnion Leader Correspondent

NEW HAMPTON — Those who knew T. Holmes Moore, known as "Bud" to most, remember his work in education for decades at the head of New Hampton School, and for his fundraising work for New Hampshire Public Television, the New Hampshire Music Festival and numerous other groups statewide.

.At New Hampton, which he led for 32 years, "he really conveyed a belief and confidence in his students, even when, at times, they may not have had confidence in themselves," said Andrew Menke, New Hampton's head of school.

There is a long list of groups he helped as a fundraiser..."He was a phenomenal fundraiser and consultant for numerous organizations that really needed his help," said Brenda Conklin, general manager of the music festival, where Moore sang bass for 40 years and served for 12 years as chairman of its board.

But it was a great love of life and a frequent bright smile that brought Moore, who died Sunday at age 93, into the hearts of most who remembered him. His outgoing, friendly personality served him well in his work..."What I remember most about Bud was an enthusiasm and energy for every project he undertook, which was infectious," said Dean Dexter, a former Belknap county commissioner and state representative.

"He was a great storyteller, a very upbeat, positive personality, which caused anything he touched to just blossom," Dexter said...Moore was born in Grafton and grew up in Penacook. He began his adult life serving his country. In 1941, he enlisted in the U.S. Naval Air Corps, and flew observation missions in World War II off two battleships, and was later awarded the Navy Air Medal...At New Hampton School, he held the positions of English department head, registrar, director of the summer session, director of admissions, and executive headmaster. He retired in 1991, and he served as a member of the school's board of trustees until his death...He also served on numerous regional education boards for decades. In 1977, he was awarded an honorary doctor of law from Franklin Pierce College. In 1982, he received UNH's highest honor, the Pettee Medal, for distinguished service to the state of New Hampshire, and in 1986 he was voted a New Hampshire Notable. In 2008, he received the Granite State Award after giving the commencement address at Plymouth State University...But he was also known to area residents. For many years, he was moderator at the New Hampton Community Church, and he directed the church choir for over 50 years.

He also served as moderator for the town of New Hampton.Among his many projects was a barbershop quartet with his surviving wife, Norma Jean "Jinga" Moore, and a local couple. He also was a member of several local singing groups, including the Pemigewasset Choral Society.

"Frankly, I never figured out how he was able to do so much," Dexter said. "He lived a long, wonderful life, and was a tremendous example to young and old alike."..dseufert@newstote.com..